In some jurisdictions, they’re actually way up there.
Due to the political demagoguery inherent to the system, prosecutors are typically judged by how many convictions they get, regardless of how many of the accused were actually guilty.
That gives them a BIG incentive to a) ignore the possibility that anyone they feel they might be able to convict might be innocent and b) specifically target poor people, people of color, other marginalized groups, and ESPECIALLY combinations of those, as they’re the least likely to be able to mount an effective legal defense.
The state prosecutors that are amongst the worst of the worst people in the country are the ones who are aware of the above and not just don’t fight against it, but actively and deliberately fight to PRESERVE that inherently unjust and discriminatory status quo.
I don’t know about removing the position, but it’s DEFINITELY overdue for some extensive reforms to ensure that they’re not in the business of victimizing some of the most vulnerable people in society for job security.
In some jurisdictions, they’re actually way up there.
Due to the political demagoguery inherent to the system, prosecutors are typically judged by how many convictions they get, regardless of how many of the accused were actually guilty.
That gives them a BIG incentive to a) ignore the possibility that anyone they feel they might be able to convict might be innocent and b) specifically target poor people, people of color, other marginalized groups, and ESPECIALLY combinations of those, as they’re the least likely to be able to mount an effective legal defense.
The state prosecutors that are amongst the worst of the worst people in the country are the ones who are aware of the above and not just don’t fight against it, but actively and deliberately fight to PRESERVE that inherently unjust and discriminatory status quo.
Should we get rid of state prosecutors?
I don’t know about removing the position, but it’s DEFINITELY overdue for some extensive reforms to ensure that they’re not in the business of victimizing some of the most vulnerable people in society for job security.
And judges too. But what’s a better replacement?
Exactly.